8.09

Zimbali Country Club

ARCHITECTS

Course info

ACCESS
Public
EST.
1998
GRASS
Couch
SEASON
Year Round
CART TYPE
Electric
avg. Price
$
110
?
CADDIES
Unknown
Type
Parkland
Unknown
Par
72
Unknown
Holes
18
Stimpmeter
9.5
City
Ballito

Score

8.09
Design
40%
8.3
Conditions
25%
8.0
Desirability
15%
7.3
Scenery
10%
8.7
Fun
5%
7.9
Uniqueness
5%
7.6

Difficulty

Overall
Moderate

Slope 130

75
155

Scratch Rating

-10
0
+10

Stimpmeter 9.5

7
15

Walkability Hard

Easy
Brutal

Weather

Average Rain Medium

Low
Extreme

Average Wind Medium

Low
Extreme

Price

?
?
?
$
80
$
110
$
150
Low
Average
High

Yearly Rounds

0
75,000

Course Report

Zimbali Country Club was the first Tom Weiskopf design in Africa and has hosted multiple regional tournaments, set within a former sugar cane plantation.

About

Zimbali Country Club, designed by Tom Weiskopf, is a renowned 18-hole course on South Africa's Dolphin Coast. Blending links and parkland styles, it traverses undulating terrain, offering panoramic ocean views and forested holes. Eco-conscious and challenging, the course is celebrated for its natural beauty and superb amenities.

Caddie Tip

Pay close attention to the wind on exposed elevation changes; club selection through the first eleven open holes is critical. The forest holes require careful course management due to narrow fairways and strategic bunkering. Approach shots should favor the safer side of greens, as undulating terrain can exaggerate mis-hits.

The Main Challenge

The challenging elevation changes and sharp doglegs on the front nine force golfers to think strategically from the tee. The closing stretch through dense forest tests accuracy and mental focus with narrow fairways and fast greens exposed to coastal breezes.

The Good

Golfers rave about the spectacular views of the Indian Ocean and varied hole designs, with each shot offering a unique challenge. The seamless blend of coastal forest and open terrain provides variety and a rewarding experience, making every round memorable for visitors and locals alike.

The Not So Good

Some players note the pace of play can slow during peak times due to the course’s popularity and layout. The heavy elevation and long walks between holes demand that carts are mandatory, which some still wish to improve for easier on-foot navigation.

Signature Hole:

#

18

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The 18th hole, a dramatic par 4, closes the round with a sweeping drive over rolling coastal terrain framed by indigenous forest. Strategic bunkering and elevation changes demand precision, while magnificent ocean vistas offer a spectacular finish for golfers of all skill levels.

Clubhouse

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The elegant clubhouse features upscale dining, large outdoor terraces for post-round drinks, modern changing rooms, a vibrant lounge, and versatile event spaces for weddings and private functions. Members and guests enjoy regular social events and a welcoming atmosphere.

Practice Facilities

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Extensive practice facilities include a full-length driving range, large putting green, and short game area. The pro shop is well stocked and offers lessons from certified professionals, catering to all levels of players.

Dress Code:

Standard

No dress code enforced. All attire is permitted.

Collared shirts not required. Clean, athletic or golf-appropriate casual wear is acceptable.

Collared shirts required. No denim, gym wear, or overly casual clothing.

Collared shirts must be tucked in; no cargo or athletic shorts. No hats indoors.

Elite club standards; jackets required indoors, no changing shoes in the parking lot, and specific attire rules based on the area of the facility.

South Africa